Johnny Vegas turns out for Saints

Johnny Vegas is best known for his role on Shooting Stars

Comedian Johnny Vegas was drafted in to play Rugby League for St Helens in their testimonial game against Hull FC at Knowsley Road.

The star, who is from St Helens, Merseyside, and is a lifelong Saints fan, made a five-minute appearance at the end of the match on Wednesday.

The testimonial was for hooker Keiron Cunningham, who has been out of the game for four months due to injury.

St Helens won the match 28-18, making Vegas part of the winning team.

Before the match, head coach Ian Millward said: "Johnny is looking forward to having a big impact on the game, and his unusual style should cause the opposition any number of problems."

The comedian, real name Michael Pennington, is best known for his guest role on Shooting Stars and his ITV Digital monkey ads.

He won the 2001 best comedy newcomer at the Comedy Awards for his role in the series, Happiness.